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Protégez votre vision avec une couverture complète
At Interexpat, we believe that maintaining good vision is an essential part of your overall health. As an expatriate in Singapore, having the right optical coverage is vital—whether you need an eye exam, prescription glasses, contact lenses, or even specialized procedures like cataract surgery. We’re here to help you understand optical insurance and how it can safeguard your eye health.
What is Optical Insurance?
Optical insurance, often included as an "Optical Benefit" or "Vision Benefit" in your health insurance policy, helps cover the costs associated with maintaining your vision. This optional benefit typically covers:
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Eye Examinations: Regular eye tests performed by qualified optometrists to assess your vision and overall eye health.
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Prescription Glasses & Contact Lenses: Coverage for the cost of prescription glasses, contact lenses, and even prescription sunglasses.
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Other Eyecare Services: Depending on your plan, other services like vision correction surgery or consultations with specialists may also be included.
In Singapore, local health insurance plans often don’t include optical care, but more comprehensive international plans do, offering annual eye exams and reimbursement for glasses or contacts up to a specified limit.
Optometrists vs. Ophthalmologists: Who Should You See?
There are two main types of eye care professionals who play a role in your eye health: Optometrists and Ophthalmologists.
Here's what you need to know:
Optometrists: These medical professionals focus on primary vision care, including eye exams, vision correction, and prescribing lenses. Optometrists can also detect certain eye conditions, but they don’t perform surgeries. They are typically covered under the Optical Benefit for eye exams and vision correction.
Ophthalmologists: These are medical doctors who specialize in diagnosing and treating more serious eye conditions, such as eye diseases and surgical interventions.
Ophthalmologists may be involved in more advanced care, including surgeries like cataract removal or LASIK. Ophthalmologist consultations and surgeries are typically covered under Specialist Consultations or Surgical Benefits in your health insurance plan.
What Eye Care is Covered by Optical Insurance?
1. Eye Examinations, Glasses, and Contact Lenses The core of the Optical Benefit usually includes:
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Eye Examinations: An optometrist will conduct a series of tests to evaluate the clarity of your vision and detect conditions such as astigmatism or farsightedness.
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Prescription Glasses & Contacts: Coverage includes the cost of prescription eye wear, including glasses, contact lenses, and even prescription sunglasses. Coverage is typically subject to an annual limit, which can range from SGD 300 to SGD 1,000depending on the plan.
Ophthalmologist Consultations and Surgery
For more advanced eye care, including surgery, most health insurance plans cover ophthalmologist consultations and procedures under Specialist Consultations or Surgical Benefits.
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LASIK: While LASIK surgery for vision correction is often not covered by insurance, certain plans may cover it if deemed medically necessary.
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Cataract Surgery: This typically requires a referral from an optometrist and may be covered if deemed medically necessary by your insurer. Be sure to check for any waiting periods or sub-limits (such as coverage only after 120 days of your policy being active).
Coverage for Optical Care: What to Look For
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Annual Eye Exams: Ensure that your plan provides coverage for an annual eye exam to catch early signs of vision problems.
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Limits and Sub-Limits: Coverage for glasses or contact lenses may come with annual reimbursement limits. These can vary, so it's important to review the details of your policy.
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Exclusions: Be mindful that some procedures, like LASIK, may not be covered unless considered medically necessary. Check your policy for exclusions related to elective surgeries.
How We Help You Find the Right Plan
At Interexpat, we work with leading insurers like April International, Now Health, and Cigna to bring you health insurance plans that offer comprehensive optical coverage. Our advisors are here to help you navigate the details and find a plan that suits your specific needs, ensuring you have access to high-quality vision care in Singapore. We can help you compare plans, understand the fine print, and make informed decisions about your optical benefits
Get the Right Optical Insurance Coverage Today
Your vision is precious. With the right optical insurance, you can protect your eyes and save on the cost of essential care like eye exams, glasses, and contact lenses. If you’re ready to learn more about your optical insurance options or need help finding the best plan for you and your family in Singapore, reach out to us today. Our expert team is here to provide personalized advice and help you make the right choice.